When you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and simple to make, One Pot Beefaroni is your best friend. Imagine a dish that merges tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all simmering together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make One Pot Beefaroni – Step By Step
Step 1:
Begin by heating your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pot and start breaking it up with your spoon or spatula. As the beef begins to brown, it will release its natural juices. This should take about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. If there’s excess fat after browning, drain it to avoid a greasy final dish.
Step 2:
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Continue to sauté these ingredients with the beef. The vegetables should start to soften and become fragrant after about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of your beefaroni.
Step 3:
Next, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning along with the desired amounts of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. The broth and tomato sauce are essential for cooking the macaroni evenly and imparting flavor. Let this simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4:
Add the elbow macaroni into the pot, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Stir to submerge the pasta into the liquid, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5:
When the macaroni is perfectly cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover once again for another 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into gooey perfection. Give the One Pot Beefaroni a final stir to mix in the melted cheese.
How to Serve One Pot Beefaroni
Serve your One Pot Beefaroni hot from the pot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch of flavor. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. It’s perfect for gatherings; simply ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine when adding the tomato sauce and broth. If you prefer a bit of heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes with your spices. Feel free to experiment with different cheese options like mozzarella for a creamier texture!
High-Protein Beefaroni Twist
Want to boost the protein content of this dish? Consider incorporating lentils or quinoa instead of just relying on the beef. Both options blend seamlessly into the dish and enrich it with nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
To further amp up the protein, you could replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, which are lean sources of protein. Add some kidney beans for an extra boost if you like!
Low-Carb Beefaroni Makeover
If you’re counting carbs, swap the traditional pasta with low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. These alternatives absorb the flavors well while keeping your meal light and fulfilling!
Another idea is using cauliflower rice instead of pasta. It offers the same comforting texture and soaks up the broth and sauce, giving you all of the savory notes you love without the carbs.
Storage Instructions
Your One Pot Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I make the recipe ahead of time? Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! Simply store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned in the storage instructions.
- What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or beef alternative proteins work well in this recipe.
- Is this dish spicy? No, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer it with a kick.
- How do I prevent the pasta from sticking? Stir occasionally and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot during the simmering process.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute cheese with your favorite non-dairy cheese alternative.
Conclusion: Share the Beefaroni Love!
This One Pot Beefaroni recipe brings convenience and flavor to your table, making it a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a hearty dinner option, it’s a satisfying choice everyone will appreciate. Try it, modify it to your taste, and most importantly enjoy it! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends, or leave a comment letting us know how it turned out!
One Pot Beefaroni
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- elbow macaroni
- onion
- garlic
- bell pepper
- tomato sauce
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
- beef broth
- shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Steps
- Heat a large pot and brown ground beef over medium-high heat, draining excess fat.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Add elbows macaroni, stir, cover, and reduce heat to simmer until pasta is tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined, then serve immediately.